Ten Things Every Car Owner Should Know Before Buying an Electric Car

Mercedes-SLS-AMG-E-CELL all electric car that is super fast

Buying an Electric Car – ( Solar Thermal Magazine)

Companies in the auto industry understand that innovation is the only way that can ensure that they remain in business currently and in the future. In particular, they have to monitor the national and global economic, social, and political phenomena, as it has a direct impact in consumer behavior.

BMW i3 all electric vehile being charged

For example, the need to reduce green houses gave rise to the manufacture of more efficient cars such as the electric car. More consumers are embracing the use of electric cars despite the fact that quite a number of people are still in the dark about it. There has never been a better time to purchase an electric car.

Ten Things Every Car Owner Should Know Before Buying an Electric Car

Having said that, consumers should make a strong effort to familiarize themselves with relevant information pertaining to the use of electric car. To start with, unknown to many, the prices of electric cars are undergoing a deflation. Of course there are luxury electric cars which can be expensive, but most of the varieties of electric cars are recording a lower price.

Inside the Nissan Leak all electric car

Second, it is important that the consumers understood that there are two main types of electric cars: Battery electric vehicles (BEV) utilize electricity that is stored in a battery. Their main feature is that they can be recharged at home, road, work, or station. The plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs) are fueled by both gasoline and electricity. They can be plugged in for a charge.

Third, an electric car has a very high score of energy efficiency making it an efficient mode of transport. Mechanical engineers have agreed that 80 % of the energy stored in its battery is transferred directly to power the car. This is unlike the gasoline powered cars where the power transferred from the battery to the car is only 14 to 26 %.

Mercedes-SLS-AMG-E-CELL all electric car that is super fast

Fourth, the electric car was the ability to meet the transportation needs of an average citizen without strain. For example, the average daily round trip of an American is less than 30 miles. An electric car offers a reliable and comfortable 70 miles for every charge. There are viable alternatives for longer distances.

Fifth, it is important that one became well versed on how to charge an electric car. Charging needs depend on the car, temperature, battery, and other factors. For optimal charging, one should faithfully follow the automaker links from the Virtual Showroom. It is advisable that you do the charging at night or during the off-peak hours.

The Mitsubishi i-miev all electric car

Sixth, an electric car has a very low maintenance cost. For example, the brake pads can last for long. It is only the wiper blades and tires which may demand more attention.

Seventh, the car can help you to save on the cost of fuel. By all standards, electricity is far much cheaper than other fuel options. The cost of electricity is likely to get lower with time. Analysts have evaluated the true cost of fueling the car and have concluded that it is very sustainable.

Eighth, there are comfortable and unique features that are manifested by electric cars. These include safety measures, ample room for cargo and passengers, quiet and quick acceleration, sophisticated screen displays, exhilarating driving experience, and regenerative breaking system.

Ninth, the electric market is not stagnant. For example, in October 2012, more than 7,000 electric cars were sold. The trend is going to gain more momentum as the car penetrates the market. This has also been aided by US federal tax credits as well as state specific tax incentives.

The Chevy volt a serial hybrid electric car

Lastly, an electric car contributes to environment conversation because it uses little or no gasoline. Moreover, it does not emit greenhouse gases. It should be noted that in many cases, electricity is categorized as a clean source of energy. In fact, some power plants have undergone modification to lower emissions.

Conclusion
The future use of electric cars is optimistic. Mike Tinskey, Ford’s director of electrification, says that the manufacture of electric cars is going to be more harmonized and more efficient. Most importantly, the ever evolving technology will translate to a cheaper electric car battery which will in turn lead to a more affordable electric car. Overall, electrification of cars will lead to more energy efficiency and a better environment.

About Gordon SmithGordon's expertise in the area of industrial energy efficiency and alternative energy. He is an experienced electrical engineer with a Masters degree in Alternative Energy technology. He is the co-founder of several renewable energy media sites including Solar Thermal Magazine.